Microsoft takes over HockeyApp test platform

Microsoft has acquired the HockeyApp test platform for an undisclosed amount. Developers can send beta versions of new apps to testers on iOS, Android, Windows Phone and OS X via HockeyApp. This way developers can collect feedback.

The acquisition of the German HockeyApp has been announced on the company’s website. The acquisition amount has not been disclosed. Despite the acquisition, HockeyApp will remain up and running and all accounts will be retained. The software will be included in the Application Insights service in Visual Studio Online, according to a blog post by the boss of Microsoft’s Developer Division.

HockeyApp is very similar to TestFlight, a test suite that was purchased by Apple at the beginning of this year. The big difference, however, is that TestFlight focuses exclusively on iOS developers, while HockeyApp is suitable for all major platforms. Developers who use the test service receive crash reports, among other things, and HockeyApp offers an integrated feedback system.